William D. Von Busch
William D. Von Busch, affectionately known as Billy, died unexpectedly at his home Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, at the age of 60.
Though his time here ended far too soon, Billy’s life was filled with love, laughter and countless moments of kindness that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Born at West Hudson Hospital in Kearny, on Sept. 16, 1964, Billy spent much of his life in the community he loved before moving to Belvidere in 2011. He was a true craftsman at heart — talented with tools, gifted at fixing just about anything and always ready to lend a helping hand. Billy’s generous spirit and willingness to show up for others made him a steady source of comfort and reliability to his family and friends.
He is survived his daughter, Victoria. He also leaves behind his loving mother, Judith Oldknow; his father, William O. Von Busch (and his wife MaryEllen); his sisters Debbie (and her husband Donald Manning), Denise (and her husband John Arndt) and Dawn Romeo; step-siblings; as well as many adoring nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who will carry his memory forward.
A celebration of life will take place Sept. 16, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Hriczak Park Pavilion, Belvidere.
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Kevin A. Canessa Jr. is the editor of and broadcaster at The Observer, an organization he has served since 2006. He is responsible for the editorial content of the newspaper and website, the production of the e-Newspaper, writing several stories per week (including the weekly editorial), conducting live broadcasts on social media channels such as YouTube, Facebook, and X, including a weekly recap of the news — and much more behind the scenes. Between 2006 and 2008, he introduced the newspaper to its first-ever blog — which included podcasts, audio and video. Originally from Jersey City, Kevin lived in Kearny until 2004, lived in Port St. Lucie. Florida, for four years until February 2016 and in March of that year, he moved back to Kearny to return to The Observer full time. Click Here to send Kevin an email.